You might be wondering how to make time for Qigong when you’re busy.  Everyone’s busy these day and finding time to relax and destress is often really tricky but it’s absolutely vital for your health.  Stress is a big killer.  So here are a few tips for fitting Qigong into your daily life.

Not long is the simple answer.  You can start with as little as 10 minutes a day.

For beginners, a short practice can very quickly make a real difference to how you feel. And the more you practise, the better you’ll feel. 

It really helps to schedule it into your day.  And try to stick to it.

Any time but the key is consistency. Personally, I like to practise first thing in the morning because it sets me up for the day.

I recommend that people start with a few simple ‘Knocking on the door of life’ moves while waiting for the kettle to boil. 

This is one of the easiest Qigong moves, and a great way to wake yourself up and ease tension in the neck and spine.  

How do I do it? 

• Stand with your feet hip or shoulder distance apart, feet facing forwards. Imagine you have roots connecting deep into the earth. 
• Let your arms hang loosely at your sides and take a few deep inhales.  Relax and breathe into your abdomen.  Feel your joints softening.
• Keeping your legs rooted like a tree and hips facing forwards, gently start to twist your torso from side to side.
• As you twist your arms will swing like big heavy wet noodles, tapping lightly across the body.  Let your head turn naturally as your body twists gently from side to side. 
• Slowly come to stillness and feel the Qi moving in your body.

This wakes up your energy, loosens your back, shoulders, neck and spine.  And it’s fun. 

Just find a time that works and try to stick to it – this helps build the habit. Consistency counts.

Even a short Qigong routine of 5-10 minutes of daily practice can be beneficial.

As you build the habit, you can gradually increase your practice time. This approach is definitely more sustainable than starting with long sessions that may be difficult to maintain.

Anywhere and it helps if you can identify a space at home to start.  This could be a quiet corner in your home or somewhere outdoors. You don’t need much room – just enough to stretch your arms above your head and out to the sides. 

Having a designated practice area reduces barriers and makes it easier to start your routine each day.

You don’t need any special equipment but it is lovely to be outside or to have a view outdoors. 

In my own Qigong classes here in the Surrey Hills, we often practise outside when we can – nature makes a wonderful practice partner.

If you’re based near Guildford or Godalming, come and try a class.

Don’t try to do too much.  Focus on the quality of your breath and the flow of your movement.

Choose Qigong practices that you really love. If you look forward to your practice, you’re more likely to maintain it consistently. Trust me, I know from experience. 

Experiment with different styles and moves to find what resonates with you. Start with simple, flowing movements that help you feel calm, grounded and energised.

The beauty of Qigong is that it adapts to your life – not the other way around.

Even on busy days, a few mindful minutes can really shift your energy. The key is to maintain the habit, even if the duration or intensity varies.

Keep a record of your practice sessions and any benefits you notice.

Make a note of how you feel at the start – notice any areas of stiffness or discomfort. 

Then notice afterwards – what’s changed and how do you feel now.  Being able to see progress is hugely motivating. 

This reflective approach is at the heart of healing Qigong – tuning into how your body feels each day and responding with compassion.

If you’ve been wondering how to make time for Qigong, I hope these tips have shown how simple it can be to begin. 

And if you’d like help building a Qigong routine that works for you, I’d love to welcome you to a class or discuss options for bespoke 1-1 lessons. 

I teach weekly Qigong classes and retreats in and around the Surrey Hills, all within easy reach of Guildford, Godalming and surrounding villages.

So, whether you’re completely new to Qigong, or returning to your practice after a break, you’ll find simple, gentle movements and warm encouragement with a lovely group of like-minded spirits. 

You can find more details about class times and locations here, or feel free to get in touch with any questions. I look forward to seeing you soon.